This liberal arts major is for those who want a generalist approach, rather than a career-specific orientation, to the subject. You study music from various perspectives: the historical development of musical styles; ear training and musicianship; the structures and theory of music; composition; music technologies; performance instruction; and music teaching.

What the study of this major is like:

Most music programs require at least four courses in music history, in which you study the musical styles and genres of different periods, as well as the most important composers. You may do advanced work in the music of a period or of a composer, the extent of change in music of a period the next; and the connection between music and the society in which it was created. More and more colleges are teaching music produced outside Europe and North America-for example, traditional Chinese music and music of the West African coast.

Music theory courses assume that you are familiar with the fundamentals of music (rhythmic and pitch notation, key signatures, and scales). In a minimum of four theory courses, you learn the principles of four-part music. You then practice these principles in weekly writing exercises. Theory courses also teach methods of analysing music in depth. You may do advanced work in counterpoint, analysis, or the history of music theory; or begin work in composition. In composition courses, you may use computer programs to synthesize music electronically.

The music major almost always includes work in basic musicianship-piano, sight singing, score reading, keyboard harmony, and melodic and harmonic dictation. All programs provide you with opportunities to perform in ensembles, and many require you to do so. Individual voice and instrumental lessons, as well as conducting courses, are available at many colleges. Some programs offer a music performance work (for example, in voice, violin, trumpet, or percussion). These programs often lead to the Bachelor of Music degree rather than to a liberal arts degree with a music major.

Instruction style may vary according to the aspect of music you are studying. Your courses may be research-oriented or lab-oriented, or you may work mostly one-on-one with your professors. The music major can be demanding, because it requires you to take numerous courses and spend many hours studying and rehearsing, both in and out of the classroom. But majors generally have a strong sense of community and of working towards a common goal. Because colleges sponsor recitals and concerts by faculty members and guest artists, students frequently meet and talk extensively with professional performers and also participate in the management of these concerts. Many colleges offer music majors the opportunity to present their own recitals when they are in their fourth year.

Colleges vary widely in their approach to the study of music. Some schools are conservatories that emphasize performance and composition. Other colleges focus on the historical and theoretical study of music. Still others seek a balance between practice and theory.

Career options and trends:

Professional or studio musician; composer, music teacher; recording engineer of mixer; art administrator; music publishing editor; film music editor; music therapist; music store manager; music software developer.

To become a music therapist or to teach in public schools, you must obtain certification and meet specific education requirements.

A general music major does not directly lead to careers in the profession, but like all liberal arts majors, it provides a broad, flexible foundation for a variety of occupations or for graduate school. Students at the top of their class who are willing to relocate may obtain music-related jobs after graduation, but the music industry is very competitive.